The biggest regional arts centre in Australia is set to open in Geelong within weeks, with works nearing completion on the Andrews Labor Government's $140 million Little Malop Street project.
Premier Daniel Andrews toured the site today and announced the new Geelong Arts Centre will open on Saturday 19 August, with a month-long festival to follow.
The expanded arts centre will attract the best artists and shows from across the region and around the world and bring them to Geelong.
The opening festivities will kick off with two Grand Opening Showcase events featuring headliner Jessica Mauboy, and a comedy triple-header featuring Dilruk Jayasinha, Lizzy Hoo and Dave Thornton on 19 August.
Four weeks of free and ticketed events will follow, including performances from the likes of Missy Higgins, tours of the new facilities, a community open day, comedy acts and much more.
The festival will be the community's first taste of the Centre's brand-new facilities, including stunning new theatres and flexible performance spaces, dining and hospitality options and an atrium plaza. Vastly improved accessibility will make this a centre for everyone.
The project is creating 600 jobs during construction and showcases the creativity and craftmanship of the region - from the carpets to the large-scale architectural glass on the façade to First Nations artworks.
Once the centre opens, the region will be spoilt for choice when it comes to performances and creative activity, with 1,000 events already booked in.
The completion of the $140 million Little Malop Street Redevelopment will mark the most ambitious stage of the Geelong Arts Centre transformation following the Labor Government's $38.5 million Ryrie Street redevelopment, completed in 2019.
For more information on the redevelopment and the opening festival program, visit geelongartscentre.org.au.
As stated by Premier Daniel Andrews
"This redevelopment has always been a project for the long-term benefit of Geelong - supporting local businesses, showcasing the city's creativity and creating jobs."
"In August there will be so much to celebrate in Geelong, with the very best in arts and entertainment on show in the biggest arts centre in regional Australia."
As stated by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
"What better way to mark the end of such a major project for our region than with a major celebration of arts, culture and entertainment - locals and visitors alike will love their first visit to the brand-new Geelong Arts Centre."
As stated by Member for Lara Ella George
"Revitalising Geelong's arts and culture precinct has already created hundreds of jobs during construction and will boost local businesses in the creative industries for years to come."
As stated by Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
"This is a win for the whole region - whether you live in Geelong, the Surf Coast or Bellarine Peninsula, you'll be able to stay local and see the best acts from around Australia and the world."
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"We're backing the Geelong region by investing in this critical project to ensure bigger and better acts come to our city, more tourists visit our city and cement our city's reputation as the home of arts and culture in regional Australia."
As stated by Geelong Arts Centre CEO and Creative Director Joel McGuinness
"This milestone in our cultural history puts Geelong Arts Centre on a global stage and ensures those from around our region and beyond can gather, connect, and share their passion for the arts right here in Geelong."
